Qatari women fear camera phones in hair salons, by matchmakers

An article in the "Gulf News" (http://www.gulfnews.com/region/Qatar/10065292.html) notes that some women in Qatar are avoiding hair salons because they're afraid their photo will be taken will a camera phone.

A Qatari woman says in the Gulf News, "Sometimes matchmakers take pictures to show to the males of their families or others. Sometimes it could be just for envy.

"Once a lady who is usually wearing the veil is portrayed without it and her picture is shown around, her reputation could be ruined forever."

The Ministry of Education in Qatar has banned camera phones in public and private schools. Some teenagers and students snap camera phone photos of people without their permission -- a serious offense in the country.

Offenders face a fine and/or jail.

Qatar is a conservative Muslim society and many citizens get upset when their photos are taken without permission. Of course, many people in more liberal countries don't want their photos taken without their consent!

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